To celebrate opening weekend of the 2012 college football, the NFLDraftScout.com Big Board has expanded to the top 40.

This isn't a mock draft. There is no attention given to team needs or what order NFL teams might be selecting in April.

The Big Board is simply a ranking of the 40 best draft-eligible prospects on Aug. 30 as the first game of the 2012 college football season kicks off, starting the long road to the 2013 NFL Draft.More on NFL DraftRelated links

1. Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah: The reigning Morris Trophy winner as the Pac-12's most dominant defensive lineman, the 6-foot-3, 325-pound Lotulelei is earning comparisons from regional scouts to former Oregon Duck and current Baltimore Ravens star Haloti Ngata. Lotulelei's combination of size, athleticism and power make it a reasonable comparison, which is high praise in itself. Learn the name now -- this is the most appropriately named player in the country.

2. Matt Barkley, QB, Southern California: Barkley's lack of ideal size (6-1, 218) and arm strength means that he's no shoo-in as the No. 1 overall prospect for the 2013 draft. His accuracy, mobility and experience in a pro-style offense would have earned Barkley a top-five selection had he entered the 2012 draft.

3. *Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU: An explosive edge rusher with the frame (6-4, 240) to intrigue scouts for NFL teams using 4-3 and 3-4 schemes alike, Mingo's speed, agility and surprising strength could result in a monster 2012 season.

4. *Johnathon Hankins, DT, Ohio State: With a combination of size (6-3, 335), strength and athleticism similar to Dontari Poe, Hankins could see a similar rise up draft boards. Like Poe, however, Hankins' lofty grade is based more on his potential than his play thus far.

5. *David Amerson, CB, North Carolina State: His unique combination of size (6-2, 193), speed and ball skills helped Amerson explode onto the scene a year ago with a jaw-dropping 13 interceptions. To warrant this high of a grade, he'll need to prove that his breakout sophomore campaign was no fluke.

6. *Keenan Allen, WR, California: While Southern Cal's Robert Woods earned most of the hype in the Pac-12 a year ago, Allen is similarly gifted and at 6-3, 205, has even better size than the Trojans star. With all due respect to Woods and Tennessee's Justin Hunter, Allen is in a class by himself at the receiver position.

7. *Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M: The baby-faced Joeckel might look young but in earning all-conference accolades at left tackle after each of his first two seasons in the Big 12, he has shown the patience and technique of an NFL veteran. The test could be tougher this season against SEC competition but if Joeckel is up to the challenge he could join his former quarterback Ryan Tannehill as a top-10 pick.

Get ready for another great LSU defensive back -- safety Eric Reid. (US Presswire) Get ready for another great LSU defensive back -- safety Eric Reid. (US Presswire) 8. *Eric Reid, FS, LSU: Overshadowed by some of the other talented defensive backs that LSU has churned out regularly in recent seasons, Reid has quietly established himself as the elite safety in the country.

9. Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia: As the featured pass rusher in Georgia's 3-4 scheme, Jones led the SEC with 19½ tackles for loss and 13½ sacks, demonstrating not only natural rush skills but impressive overall athleticism and a high-revving motor. As productive and passionate as Jones was in 2011, NFL teams will be sure to check out the neck injury that led to his transfer from USC, where he had originally signed as a highly regarded prep in 2008 and played as a reserve in 2009.

10. Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas: Blessed with a strong arm, good mobility and the toughness to take a shot and still deliver passes, there is a lot to like about Wilson. His success against SEC competition has certainly been impressive. Scouts recognize that Wilson's production may have been a bit inflated by former head coach Bobby Petrino's high-octane offense and the receiving talent Arkansas boasted a season ago. If he can improve his decision-making and ball placement, Wilson has the physical tools to leapfrog Barkley as the top senior quarterback prospect in the country.

11. *Logan Thomas, QB, Virginia Tech: Thomas isn't as polished as the two senior QBs ranked ahead of him but the upside on this 6-5, 254-pound monster is through the roof. With his combination of size, mobility and accuracy on the deep ball, comparisons to Cam Newton are growing.

12. Jackson Jeffcoat, DE/OLB, Texas: More athletic than his more hyped teammate Alex Okafor, Jeffcoat projects nicely as a 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 rush linebacker due to his burst up the field, lateral agility and natural pass-rush skills. He currently lacks Okafor's strength, but as the son of former NFL standout defensive end Jim Jeffcoat, he knows better than most what it takes to make it at the next level.

13. *Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee: Listing Hunter this high is certainly a projection, as he missed most of the 2011 season with a torn ACL. When healthy, the 6-4, 205-pound Hunter showed a rare combination of size, straight-line speed and ball skills to compete with Cal's Allen, USC's Woods and Clemson sophomore Sammy Watkins for the right to be considered among the country's truly elite receivers.

14. Kawann Short, DT, Purdue: Frankly, had this Boilermaker had the type of season he enjoyed in 2011 for an SEC school (54 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 6½ sacks), fans across the country would know the 6-3, 305-pounder's name by now. Short has a thick, wide frame and plays with excellent strength and leverage, making him a potential nose guard candidate.

15. Alex Okafor, DE, Texas: Though an arrest in May will certainly give scouts something to question, Okafor's game provides plenty of answers. Okafor doesn't have elite speed off the edge but is powerful, well-schooled in his hand technique and has a high-running motor.

16. Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State: Eight of the 15 defensive backs drafted in the first round since 2010 have come from the SEC. The 6-1, 185-pound Banks looks poised to keep up the tradition. Scouts are always looking for players capable of making game-changing plays. Banks intercepted five passes a season ago and forced three fumbles. He has 12 interceptions over his career, three of which he returned for touchdowns.

17. *Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State: Blessed with as talented a roster as there is in the country, you can expect a great deal of buzz this season around the Seminoles. While Werner is overshadowed a bit, the German-born junior might be the most pro-ready prospect on the team due to his size (6-4, 273), strength and tenacity.

Manti Te'o could be the first ND defender in the first round since 1997. (US Presswire) Manti Te'o could be the first ND defender in the first round since 1997. (US Presswire) 18. Manti Te'o, ILB, Notre Dame: Even without the gaudy tackle numbers that Luke Kuechly produced at Boston College, pro scouts will certainly see first-round characteristics in this middle linebacker. With another stellar campaign, Te'o will wrap up his Notre Dame career as the first Irish defender to earn a first-round draft selection since defensive end Renaldo Wynn was selected by No. 21 overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 1997.

19. *Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU: While not quite as athletic as linemate Mingo, the 6-5, 260-pound Montgomery showed surprising agility and speed last season considering that he missed most of the 2010 campaign with a torn ACL in his right knee. Despite being hampered by the recovery, Montgomery led the Tigers with nine sacks a season ago and looks poised for a monster 2012 campaign after reportedly adding nearly 30 pounds to his frame during the offseason.

20. Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor: Overshadowed by Robert Griffin III and Kendall Wright a season ago, Williams quietly emerged as one of the more consistent playmakers in the country in his own right. He caught 59 passes for 957 yards and 11 touchdowns a season ago as Baylor's No. 2 option. Sure, catches might be tougher to come by with RGIII now a member of the Washington Redskins, but the 6-1, 205 pound Williams should once again light up Big 12 secondaries this season and could be the first senior receiver to be selected come April.

21. Margus Hunt, DE, SMU: It has been over a quarter century since a Southern Methodist player was selected in the first round (1986). In the Estonian-born Hunt, SMU might have the unique talent needed to warrant such a lofty selection. A two-time gold medal winner in the 2006 World Junior Championships (discuss, shot put), Hunt was deservedly listed as the No. 1 "Freak" of 2012 in Bruce Feldman's annual article listing the elite athletes in college football. His combination of size (6-7, 288), strength (35 reps of 225 pounds), speed (4.70) and explosiveness (36-inch vertical jump) is off the charts. In just three seasons of college football, Hunt has 14 blocked kicks.

22. *Chris Faulk, OT, LSU: With so much praise heaped upon the LSU defense a season ago, Faulk's spectacular first season starting at left tackle for the Tigers didn't get the national attention it warranted. The 6-5, 325-pound Faulk boasts surprising flexibility to go along with the quickness, balance and power necessary to help an NFL team at virtually any spot along the offensive line.

23. *D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama: After four first-round picks in back-to-back drafts, the Crimson Tide may have to wait longer than they've grown accustomed to see their first player drafted in 2013. But no coach more consistently develops talent than Nick Saban. Fluker doesn't often get the media attention that linemate Barrett Jones receives but as the more physically gifted player, the powerful run blocker could hear his name called first.

24. Chase Thomas, OLB, Stanford: Considering the talent on Stanford's offense a season ago, it is easy to understand why Thomas was overshadowed. Frankly, he shouldn't have been with the production he enjoyed. The 6-4, 240-pound Thomas had 52 tackles, including 17 for loss, nine sacks and forced five fumbles. He plays with hustle and instincts similar to Shea McClellin, the Chicago Bears' selection at No. 19 overall last April.

25. *Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan: Arguably the most physically imposing player in the country, the 6-7, 302-pound Lewan looks like the second coming of Jake Long wearing No. 77 in the Michigan maize and blue. Lewan, who only made the switch to offensive line as a senior in high school, is certainly behind the No. 1 overall pick of the 2008 draft in terms of development but the size, athleticism and mentality are in place to resume the Wolverines' tradition of churning out quality NFL offensive linemen.

26. *Marcus Lattimore, RB, South Carolina: Like fellow SEC star Justin Hunter, Lattimore will have to prove he's over the torn ACL that ended his 2011 season prematurely to warrant listing this high. Just as Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson were the unquestioned top backs each of the past two seasons, however, there is no doubt that if Lattimore is healthy, he has established himself as a superstar.

27. *William Gholston, DE, Michigan State: Gholston lacks the burst up the field as a pass rusher that makes so many of the nation's other defensive ends so intriguing. His length (an imposing 6-6, 278) and strength make him an intriguing candidate as a five-technique capable of setting the edge for a 3-4 defense.

Barrett Jones took part in 'Bama's 2012 pro day but didn't enter the draft. (US Presswire) Barrett Jones took part in 'Bama's 2012 pro day but didn't enter the draft. (US Presswire) 28. Barrett Jones, OL, Alabama: At tackle, guard and center, Jones has demonstrated he's dependable against elite competition. I'm not going to go as far as Nick Saban and mention the name of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews when making a case for listing the defending Outland Trophy and Jacobs Blocking Trophy award winner here -- well, I wasn't going to.

29. Kenny Vaccaro, SS, Texas: Vaccaro strongly considered entering the 2012 draft after a sparkling junior season in which he earned first-team all-Big 12 honors with 82 tackles, including two sacks and two interceptions. Instinctive, athletic and physical, he looks poised to join the long line of former standout defensive backs from Austin to earn a top-50 selection in the NFL Draft.

30. *Robert Woods, WR, USC: Woods has a nice combination of size, acceleration and the burst out of his breaks to gain separation. He's being a bit overrated by some due to the monster numbers he put up a year ago (111 catches for 1,292 yards and 15 TDs). If he is to prove worthy of his hype and ultimately be selected in the first round, he'll need to catch the ball and make defenders miss much more consistently in 2012.

31. Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma: Unfairly compared to former Sooners Heisman winner and 2009 No. 1 overall pick Sam Bradford. Jones has enjoyed statistical dominance with Oklahoma while struggling, at times, with decision-making and ball-placement when forced to move his feet. He has the combination of size, arm strength and experience, however, to leap right back into high first-round consideration should he improve his poise in a muddied pocket.

32. Brennan Williams, OT, North Carolina: Overshadowed by Tar Heels guard Jonathan Cooper (also a top-50 candidate for the 2013 draft), the 6-7, 315-pound Williams caught the attention of scouts with a standout first season at right tackle in 2011. A strong second season on the edge could lead to Williams leaping ahead of other, more publicized players as the first senior offensive tackle off the board in 2013.

Sheldon Richardson makes his move early after a breakout season. (US Presswire) Sheldon Richardson makes his move early after a breakout season. (US Presswire)

The 2013 NFL Draft may someday be cited for producing one of the most elite groups of defensive linemen in recent memory.

With eight senior defensive linemen among my top 32 prospects, I anticipate a first round in April full of pass rushers and run-stuffers -- and remember, that's before any underclassmen join in the fun. Missouri junior defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson announced he'll be making the NFL leap a year early and scouts anticipate that he'll soon be joined by many others. NFL teams, of course, would love to see this occur. Other than quarterback, defensive linemen rank as the game's most valued position.

The Big Board isn't a mock draft. There is no attention given to team needs or what order NFL teams might be selecting in April. It is simply a ranking of the 50 best potentially NFL Draft-eligible prospects in the entire country. The list includes potentially draft-eligible underclassmen considered likely to consider making the jump to the NFL early.

Underclassmen are denoted with an asterisk (*).

1. *Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M: Following all-conference recognition each of his previous two seasons in the Big 12 and a newly minted All-SEC pick this year, Joeckel has cemented his stock as the top offensive tackle in college football. In answering the unique challenges presented by LSU (speed, explosiveness) and Alabama (size, power), he emerged as arguably the nation's safest prospect. Redshirt freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel may win the Heisman Trophy but don't be surprised when he suffers a sophomore slump next season should Joeckel and/or his talented bookend, Jake Matthews (No. 7 on the Big Board) head off to the NFL.More on NFL DraftRelated links

2. Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah: With the Utes struggling through a disappointing 5-7 campaign, their senior defensive tackle hasn't generated as much national attention as his play has warranted. Despite fighting constant double and triple-teams, Lotulelei registered 42 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, five sacks and four recovered fumbles this season, earning First Team All-Pac-12 accolades for the second consecutive season. Remarkably athletic at 6-foot-3, 320 pounds, he's capable of shutting down running lanes and terrorizing quarterbacks, as well.

3. *Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia: Medical concerns will ultimately dictate Jones' final draft grade but there is no questioning his ability to make impactful plays when he's on the field. Just as he did a year against Florida (four sacks), Jones was dynamic in an October 27 upset over the Gators, logging a career-high 13 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and three sacks.

4. Damontre Moore, DE, Texas A&M*: Scouts talk all the time about the important of judging players as their level of competition increases. With the Aggies making the jump to the SEC and Moore, specifically, switching from A&M's "Joker" position to full-time defensive end, some expected him to need time to acclimate. Instead, at a relatively lean 6-4, 250 pounds, he's dominated, leading the SEC with 20 tackles for loss and ranking just a half sack behind South Carolina's super sophomore Jadaveon Clowney as the conference's top sack-master with 12.5 quarterback take-downs.

5. Manti Te'o, ILB, Notre Dame: It seems that every year there is a high profile defender who earns some buzz as a Heisman contender. A few years back it was Ndamukong Suh. A year ago it was LSU's Tyrann Mathieu. This season, it is Te'o. With all due respect to Notre Dame's "skill-position" players, there is no question that the Irish's playmaking middle linebacker is the team's best player and biggest reason for their impressive season. I don't anticipate that Te'o will ultimately be drafted this high but he ranks among the relatively "sure things" of this year's draft class.

6. Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama: Offensive linemen rarely get the limelight but it might be even worse for Warmack than most. Not only do the "skill-position" and defensive stars for 'Bama generate virtually all of the attention, Warmack is overshadowed even among the Tide's blockers. Athletic, strong and reliable, he could be one of the few interior linemen to warrant top 20 consideration. I consider him to be one of the year's safest prospects, thus his extraordinary ranking.

7. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M*: Considering that he is the son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews of Houston Oilers and Tennessee Titans fame, greatness has been expected of Jake Matthews his entire life. He has lived up to the lofty expectations, starting since his true freshman season at right tackle for the Aggies. While not as athletic as his teammate, left tackle Luke Joeckel, Matthews is the better and more physical run blocker of the two.

8. *Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State: Blessed with a quick first step, heavy hands and surprising instincts given the relative lack of time the German-born Werner has in the game, the Seminoles pass rusher ranks as one of the more intriguing defensive ends in the country. Werner led all ACC defensive linemen with 13 sacks and 18 tackles for loss this season.

9. *Keenan Allen, WR, California: An exceptionally highly-regarded prep prospect who originally was going to sign with Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide as a safety before joining his brother (quarterback Zach Maynard) at Cal, Allen possesses virtually all of the physical characteristics to be a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. To earn a top 10 pick, however, he'll have to prove his health (he suffered a knee injury October 27) and straight-line speed. Allen announced on December 5 his intention to enter the 2013 draft.

10. Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia: In breezing through the first half of the regular season to post 24 touchdowns against zero interceptions, Smith appeared to have won the inside track to the Heisman Trophy and the No. 1 overall pick of the 2013 draft. Shockingly pedestrian performances over the past month, however, have his stock slipping. Even with the struggles, scouts love Smith's combination of size, arm strength, accuracy and mobility. For Smith to recoup his stock he might need to attend and perform well at the Senior Bowl.

11. Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri*: Whereas some of the top defensive tackles in the country lack eye-popping statistics, Richardson enjoyed a breakout campaign for the Tigers, finishing just four tackles behind linebacker Andrew Wilson as Missouri's leading tackler this season with 75 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss and four sacks this season. Richardson announced on Nov. 30 his intention to enter the 2013 draft.

12. Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama*: Lanky (6-1, 198), physical and productive (SEC-leading 20 PBUs), Milliner has ascended draft boards all season long. The junior is one of three finalists for the Thorpe Award as the nation's elite defensive back and if he elected to leave Alabama early, he could wind up being the first cornerback selected in the 2013 draft.

13. Johnathan Jenkins, DT, Georgia: At a massive 6-3, 358 pounds, Jenkins is the behemoth in the middle that gives a talented Bulldogs' defense its biggest bite. He enjoyed a monster game against Alabama and their duo of first round interior offensive linemen Chance Warmack and Barrett Jones in the SEC Championship, registering six tackles, including a sack.

14. Matt Barkley, QB, Southern Cal: There is plenty of evidence to suggest that Barkley is going to lose on the significant gamble he took in electing to return to USC for his senior season. After only one multi-interception game during his junior campaign, Barkley has had six in 2012, including what may prove to be the final four games of his career as the quarterback suffered a shoulder injury in USC's loss to cross-town rival UCLA Nov. 17. Scouts value Barkley's leadership, poise and accuracy on the move but there are plenty who scoff at giving him a first-round grade based on the 6-2, 230-pound quarterback's less than ideal measureables. Nonetheless, Barkley remains squarely in the first-round conversation for me.

15. *Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan: Arguably the most physically imposing player in the country, the 6-7, 302-pound Lewan looks like the second coming of Jake Long wearing No. 77 in the Michigan maize and blue. Lewan, who only made the switch to offensive line as a senior in high school, is certainly behind the No. 1 overall pick of the 2008 draft in terms of development but the size, athleticism and mentality are in place to resume the Wolverines' tradition of churning out quality NFL offensive linemen.

16. *Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU: I am as fascinated by Mingo's athleticism, flexibility, explosiveness and surprising strength at 6-5, 240 pounds as every other talent evaluator but at some point all of those traits have got to start turning into big plays. Mingo's upside appears to be limitless, but he posted just four sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss during the regular season. Against Alabama Nov. 3, Mingo registered just two tackles (both assists), half a tackle for loss and a pass breakup.

17. *Jonathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State: In terms of pure talent, Hankins deserves to be ranked among the top five prospects in the country. Possessing light feet and shocking overall athleticism for a man listed at 6-3, 320 pounds, Hankins can be a superstar. Unfortunately, Hankins' motor too often appears to in neutral rather than overdrive. After registering an impressive 11 tackles for loss in a breakout sophomore campaign, the Buckeye defender has only four this season, including just one sack. There is no denying Hankins' upside but his soft build and inconsistent effort will force teams to question where he'll find motivation once he starts cashing big NFL paychecks.

18. *Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU: Blessed with an unbelievable combination of speed and size (6-5, 260 pounds) Montgomery certainly looks the part of a top 10 pick. He has enjoyed better production thus far this season (32 tackles, including 12 tackles for loss, seven sacks) than his teammate, Mingo, but isn't as quick when changing directions and therefore I'm lower on him than many, including my peers at NFLDraftScout.com.

19. Alex Okafor, DE, Texas: In today's NFL, defensive ends are largely graded on their ability to wreak havoc on the quarterback. Okafor does not possess the elite explosiveness off the snap that generally warrants top 20 consideration but his physicality and hand usage are top notch. Despite being the obvious focus of every opponent's blocking scheme since talented teammate Jackson Jeffcoat was lost for the season with a torn pectoral muscle, Okafor leads the Big 12 with eight sacks.

20. Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama: With only 21 tackles so far this season, this native Australian has hardly provided an all-world performance thus far, statistically speaking. The 6-3, 320-pounder possesses phenomenal strength, even for Alabama (and Australia) standards, however. His value to the proud Alabama defense was demonstrated by how effectively Georgia was able to run up the middle when he was sidelined with a knee injury and how abruptly the Bulldogs' rushing success ended once Williams returned to the field.

21. *Alec Ogletree, ILB, Georgia: Jarvis Jones gets much of the hype for the Bulldogs and for good reason, but it was the ultra-athletic Ogletree who led Georgia with 98 tackles throughout the regular season despite the fact that he missed the first four games due to a suspension. The junior's athleticism, frame and closing speed could make him a greater fit at outside linebacker for some teams.

22. Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon: At a rangy 6-6, 243 pounds Jordan's length and explosiveness off the edge make him a matchup nightmare for opponents. The senior led the Ducks a year ago with 13 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks but hasn't been quite as productive this season (10.5 tackles for loss, five sacks). He is, however, earning high marks from scouts who believe he could be one of this year's most exciting "hybrid" prospects as he's so athletic Oregon has asked him to line up as a quasi-cornerback, at times.

23. Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina: NFL teams are generally loathe to spend first-round picks on guards but with the steady Cooper, an exception may have to be made. Cooper has excellent agility, demonstrating the ability to quickly get to the second level and block on the move. His terrific blocking has helped Tar Heels' running Giovani Bernard -- a legitimate high round prospect himself -- rush for an average of nearly 133 yards per game this season.

24. Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame: While perhaps lacking the elite breakaway speed that has helped Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski emerge as relatively instant NFL stars, Eifert's 6-5, 252 pound frame and excellent ball skills make him a legitimate mismatch. In today's pass-happy NFL, that could be enough to earn a late first-round selection.

25. Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee*: Considering that he's only played 10 games at the FBS level thus far, it would be easy to simply look past the stellar play Patterson has put forth as a receiver, runner and kick returner for the Vols -- especially given that defenses have often focused on stopping Justin Hunter. Patterson is a bit rough around the edges as a route runner, but the 6-3, 205-pounder is undeniably a playmaker. He's averaged 154.83 yards all-purpose yards per game, easily the most of any player in the SEC.

26. Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan: While he lacks the name recognition of some of his peers, the 6-8, 305-pound Fisher ranks among the top senior offensive tackles in the country, performing well in showdowns against Iowa, Michigan State and against a surprisingly dangerous pass-rushing Toledo defense. Physical and athletic, Fisher will compete to be the first senior offensive tackle drafted come April.

27. Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU: A native of Ghana who tried out for basketball and lettered in track before giving football a try in 2010, Ansah had 10 total tackles to his credit entering the 2012 season and was barely a blip on most scouts' radar. A few months later and comparisons to Jason Pierre-Paul are almost becoming cliche in the scouting community as the 6-5, 270-pounder blessed with extraordinary athleticism and power seems to be improving week to week.

28. Barrett Jones, OL, Alabama: Whether at tackle, guard or center Jones has demonstrated that he's dependable against the elite competition in college football. His head coach Nick Saban has said on many occasions that Jones is one of the top players he's ever been around and has compared the reigning Outland Trophy (nation's top interior lineman) and Jacobs Blocking Trophy (SEC's best blocker) to Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews.

29. Sharif Floyd, DT, Florida*: With so many talented defensive linemen playing in the SEC, Floyd hasn't generated the buzz that his talents warrant. Used predominately at defensive end a season ago, the 6-3, 303-pound junior was moved back inside to his more natural defensive tackle position this year and has stepped up his play, including earning Co-SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week honors for a five tackle, three tackle for loss performance in Florida's narrow 14-7 victory over Missouri.

30. Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia: Used in much the same fashion as a receiver, runner and returner as the Minnesota Vikings feature Percy Harvin, Austin has emerged as the top senior playmaker in the country. At just 5-09, 172 pounds Austin may not have been viewed as worthy of first-round consideration a few years ago but in today's wide-open NFL that rewards mismatches, Austin could prove among the more valued commodities on draft day.

31. *Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA: Other than BYU's Ansah, there may not be a player in the country whose NFL draft stock has ascended as sharply this season as Barr's, a former running back who exploded this season in his first year at outside linebacker. Demonstrating his unique combination of size (6-4, 238) and explosiveness against Stanford in the Pac-12 Championship, Barr recorded 1.5 sacks, giving him the nation's lead with 13.5 quarterback takedowns to end the regular season.

32. C.J. Mosley, OLB, Alabama*: The knock on many of the Alabama linebackers under Nick Saban in past years has been that while strong and tough, they've lacked agility and instincts in coverage. These, however, are precisely the traits that make Mosley unique. He may prove a better fit, in fact, outside in a predominately 4-3 alignment in the NFL rather than the 3-4 scheme in which he's played for the Tide. It was Mosley's quick hands, in fact, that led to the deflected pass and catch short of the end zone that ended Georgia's chance at beating Alabama in the SEC Championship.Just missed the cut:

33. Oday Aboushi, OT, Virginia: Physical, aggressive blocker best suited to the right side in NFL.

35. *Eric Reid, FS, LSU: Terrific in run support but questionable instincts, fluidity could make him a liability in coverage in the NFL.

36. Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma: Possessing the athleticism that once saw him line up at QB, TE and DE, Johnson has emerged as arguably the fastest-rising left tackle prospect in the country for the Sooners.

37. Kawann Short, DT, Purdue: Penetrating defensive tackle with a knack for making the big play.

43. Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas: Tough, strong-armed passer but history of head injuries could scare off teams.

44. Phillip Thomas, FS, Fresno State: A Thorpe Award candidate with an FBS-leading leading eight interceptions (including three he's returned for touchdowns), Thomas is the best safety most haven't heard of.

Practically the end of the year, and it's interesting to see before we start getting into the phase of the draft process that centers around 40 times, how players' play has improved or hurt their stock.

Big Board: Thin at skill spots, draft loaded with talent in the trenches

By Rob Rang | NFLDraftScout.comJan. 18, 2013 2:45 PM ET

1 | Comment

With the passing of the Jan. 15 deadline for underclassmen to declare themselves eligible for the 2013 NFL Draft, the prospect pool is finally settled.

The senior all-star games and workouts leading up to the draft will cause some tweaking to the rankings over the next few months, but the defining characteristics of the 2013 draft class are clear. This year's crop is generally lacking at quarterback and the other skill positions.

On the other hand, there is very impressive talent along both offensive and defensive lines. Perhaps the most underrated position group is in the defensive backfield, which may lack in headliners but offers great depth.

The Big Board isn't a mock draft. There is no attention given to team needs or the draft order. It is simply a ranking of the 64 best draft-eligible prospects in the entire country.

Underclassmen are denoted with an asterisk (*)

1. *Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M: Having earned all-conference recognition all three years of his career, Joeckel has cemented his stock as the top offensive tackle in college football. In answering the unique challenges presented by SEC defenders this season, he earned the Outland Trophy as the nation's best lineman and vaulted himself to the top of my draft board. Redshirt freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel may have won the Heisman Trophy, but Joeckel could be the one holding the bigger prize -- the thrill of being the first offensive lineman since Jake Long (2008) to be selected No. 1 overall.

2. *Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia: As a first-team All-SEC pick in each of his two eligible seasons at Georgia, Jones has proven himself to be a playmaker against both the pass and run. The 6-foot-3, 241-pound Jones led the country in three critical statistics -- sacks (14½), tackles for loss (24½) and forced fumbles (seven) despite missing two games (Kentucky, Florida Atlantic) due to injury. As dynamic as he is, the redshirt junior's medical grade will ultimately determine his draft status. He was diagnosed with a mild case of spinal stenosis in 2009 and some NFL doctors may be unwilling to clear him.

More on NFL DraftMock DraftsDane BruglerThe Chiefs will take Geno Smith No. 1 overall as Andy Reid looks for another Donovan McNabbRob RangWith a poor crop of QBs in this draft class, KC looks to the line and takes A&M's Luke JoeckelRelated linksRang: Controversy could impact Te'o's draft stockRecord number of underclassmen dominate draftProspect Rankings | Risers, fallers | Draft orderDraft blog: News & notes from Rang and BruglerNFL coverage on the goOn iTunes | Subscribe to newsletter3. *Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State: Blessed with a quick first step, heavy hands and surprising instincts given the fact that the German-born Werner (6-4, 255 pounds) has played just five years of American football, he has established himself as an elite prospect. An immediate standout in Tallahassee, Werner improved in each of his three seasons at Florida State, culminating with winning the conference's Defensive Player of the Year award this season with 18 tackles for loss, including 13 sacks.

4. Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah: With the Utes struggling through a disappointing 5-7 campaign, their senior defensive tackle didn't generate as much national attention as his play has warranted. Despite fighting constant double- and triple-teams, Lotulelei registered 42 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, five sacks and four recovered fumbles this season, earning first-team All-Pac-12 accolades for the second consecutive season. Remarkably athletic at 6-3, 320 pounds, he's capable of shutting down running lanes and terrorizing quarterbacks.

5. Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama: Offensive linemen rarely get the limelight, but it might be even worse for Warmack than most. Not only do the skill and defensive stars for Bama generate virtually all of the attention, Warmack is even overshadowed on the Tide's All-American offensive line -- but not by talent evaluators, who see the 6-3, 320-pound mauler as one of the safest prospects in his class.

6. *Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri: While some of the top defensive tackles lack eye-popping statistics, Richardson enjoyed a breakout campaign for the Tigers, finishing just four tackles behind linebacker Andrew Wilson as Missouri's leader season with 75, adding 10½ tackles for loss and four sacks.

7. *Damontre Moore, DE, Texas A&M: San Francisco 49ers pass rusher Aldon Smith's rapid ascension as one of the NFL's elite playmakers has forced talent evaluators to acknowledge how versatile defenders can impact today's game. Moore, like Smith, is viewed by some as a bit of a 'tweener at 6-4, 255 pounds, and has starred at defensive end and outside linebacker over the past two seasons for the Aggies. Having registered 21 tackles for loss this season, including 12½ sacks, Moore certainly has the production to go with his size, burst and motor.

8. *Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama: The 6-1, 198-pound Milliner is a perfect example of how Alabama reloads rather than rebuilds. A highly regarded prep prospect who started 11 games as a true freshman, Milliner was pushed a bit to the background in 2011 as 'Dre Kirkpatrick and De'Quan Menzie took over. With each now in the NFL, Milliner re-asserted himself in 2012, finishing second in the country with 20 passes broken up and providing stellar run defense on the boundary. While just a junior, the 2012 Thorpe Award finalist is NFL-ready and will only have to prove his straight-line speed to earn a top-20 pick in April.

9. *Keenan Allen, WR, California: Allen was a highly regarded prep prospect who originally was going to sign with Nick Saban at Alabama as a safety before joining his brother (QB Zach Maynard) at Cal. He has virtually all of the physical characteristics to be a No. 1 receiver in the NFL. To earn a top-10 pick Allen will have to prove his health (he suffered a knee injury Oct. 27) and straight-line speed.

10. Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia: While Smith did not play the second half of the season at the level of top-ranked QBs in recent years, the 6-3, 220-pound senior nonetheless remains a legitimate candidate to wind up as the top pick in the draft. Smith improved his completion percentage and TD-INT ratio in each of his three starting seasons, culminating in a senior campaign in which he completed a sparkling 71.24 percent of his passes and threw 42 touchdowns against just six interceptions. More important, he has all of the traits scouts are looking for in a franchise quarterback.

11. Manti Te'o, ILB, Notre Dame: More decorated than a wedding cake, Te'o has earned an astounding seven national awards since leading the Irish to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the BCS title game. While the NFL couldn't care less about a collegiate prospect's stocked trophy case, it is tough not to acknowledge the relative safety that the 6-2, 255-pound Te'o provides as an instinctive, physical defender capable of making big plays against the run and pass. However, Te'o must have a strong pre-draft process after struggling in the title game and then being embroiled in an admittedly embarrassing "hoax" that hit the national stage Jan. 16.

12. Matt Barkley, QB, Southern Cal: There is plenty of evidence to suggest Barkley will lose on the significant gamble he took in electing to return to USC for his senior season. After only one multi-interception game during his junior year, Barkley had six in 2012, including what proved to be the final four games of his career as the quarterback suffered a shoulder injury in USC's loss to cross-town rival UCLA on Nov. 17. Scouts value Barkley's leadership, poise and accuracy on the move, but there are plenty who scoff at giving him a first-round grade based on the 6-2, 230-pound quarterback's less than ideal measureables. Nonetheless, Barkley remains squarely in the first-round conversation for me.

13. Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama: Many of the top prospects boast eye-popping stats. Williams is not one of them. The Australia native finished the regular season ninth (and tied at that) on the Alabama roster with 36 tackles, including 2½ tackles for loss and one sack. The 6-3, 320-pounder's wide frame and awesome strength (600-pound bench press) make him a potentially elite nose guard. With most NFL teams either using the 3-4 as their base defense or at least incorporating many of its principles, Williams' value may not truly be proven until draft day.

14. Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan: While he lacks the name recognition of some of his peers, the 6-8, 305-pound Fisher ranks among the top senior offensive tackles in the country, performing well in showdowns against Iowa, Michigan State and vs. Toledo's surprisingly dangerous pass rush. Physical and athletic, Fisher will compete to be the first senior offensive tackle drafted come April.

15. Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU: A native of Ghana who tried out for basketball and lettered in track before giving football a try in 2010, Ansah had 10 total tackles to his credit entering the 2012 season and was barely a blip on most scouts' radar. A few months later, and comparisons to Jason Pierre-Paul are almost becoming cliché in the scouting community as the 6-5, 270-pounder emerged as a consistent big-play threat, recording 62 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and 4½ sacks and notching both a forced fumble and interception in BYU's Poinsettia Bowl victory over San Diego State. Ansah is raw as sushi right now, but the team that gambles on him could be rewarded handsomely if he continues to develop.

16. Johnathan Jenkins, DT, Georgia: Like fellow SEC run-stuffer Jesse Williams, Jenkins does not have elite stats (50 tackles, two tackles for loss, one sack) that normally are associated with first-round picks. At 6-3 and 358 pounds, however, Jenkins certainly has the beef to clog running lanes. Despite having only played two seasons at the FCS level, he has proven himself against top competition.

17. Jonathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina: NFL teams are generally loathe to spend first-round picks on guards, but an exception may have to be made with the steady Cooper. He has excellent agility with the ability to quickly get to the second level and block on the move. Cooper's terrific blocking helped Tar Heels running back Giovani Bernard -- a legitimate high-round prospect himself -- rush for an average of nearly 123 yards per game this season.

18. *Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State: In terms of pure talent, Hankins should be ranked among this draft's top five prospects. With light feet and shocking overall athleticism for a man listed at 6-3 and 320 pounds, Hankins can be a superstar. Unfortunately, his motor too often appears to in neutral rather than overdrive. After registering an impressive 11 tackles for loss in a breakout sophomore campaign, the Buckeyes defender had just five this season, including only one sack. Despite his drop in production, Hankins is entering the 2013 draft. He clearly has talent, but so did other notable Ohio State busts like Vernon Gholston and Dan Wilkinson.

19. *Alec Ogletree, ILB, Georgia: Jarvis Jones gets much of the hype for the Bulldogs -- for good reason -- but it was the ultra-athletic Ogletree who led Georgia with 111 tackles despite missing the first four games due to a suspension. The junior's lanky frame (6-3, 234) and staggering closing speed make him potentially a more dynamic player at the next level than Te'o, though Jones isn't nearly as far along in the subtleties of the position having only made the switch from safety two years ago.

20. *Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee: A junior college transfer who only played 12 games at the FBS level, it would be easy to look past the stellar play Patterson has put forth as a receiver, runner and kick returner for the Vols -- especially given that defenses have often focused on stopping teammate Justin Hunter first. While Patterson is a bit rough around the edges, the 6-3, 205-pounder is undeniably a playmaker. He averaged 154.83 all-purpose yards, easily the most of any player in the SEC.

Nagging injuries and a drop in production this season have scouts questioning Oregon hybrid Dion Jordan. (Getty Images)21. Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon: At a rangy 6-6, 243 pounds, Jordan's length and explosiveness off the edge make him a matchup nightmare for opponents. Jordan led the Ducks a year ago with 13 tackles for loss and 7½ sacks, but wasn't as productive in 2012 (10½ tackles for loss, five sacks) and has struggled with nagging injuries throughout his career. He is, however, earning high marks from scouts who believe he could be one of this year's most exciting "hybrid" prospects, as he's so athletic that Oregon asked him to line up as a quasi-cornerback at times.22. *Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida: With so many talented defensive linemen in the SEC, Floyd hasn't generated the buzz his talents warrant. Used predominately at defensive end a season ago, the 6-3, 303-pound junior was moved back inside to his more natural tackle position and stepped up his play, earning first-team all-conference honors with 46 tackles, including a team-high 13 tackles for loss. While his Gators lost the Sugar Bowl to Teddy Bridgewater and Louisville, Floyd was dynamic, sacking the mobile sophomore quarterback twice.

23. Alex Okafor, DE, Texas: In today's NFL, defensive ends are largely graded on their ability to wreak havoc on the quarterback. Okafor does not have the elite explosiveness off the snap that generally warrants top-20 consideration, but his physicality and hand usage are top notch. Despite being the obvious focus of every opponent's blocking scheme after talented teammate Jackson Jeffcoat was lost for the season with a torn pectoral muscle, Okafor earned first-team All-Big 12 accolades for the second consecutive season. He finished his Longhorns career in style with five tackles for loss (including 4½ sacks) to help beat Oregon State in the Alamo Bowl.

24. Barrett Jones, OL, Alabama: At tackle, guard and center, Jones demonstrated that he's dependable against elite competition. Saban has said on many occasions that Jones is one of the top players he has ever been around and has compared the 2011 Outland Trophy (nation's top interior lineman) to Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews. Considering his versatility and dependability (not to mention his coach's impressive recommendation), Jones quietly ranks among the safest prospects in the draft.

25. *Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU: Mingo has the frame (6-5, 240 pounds) and athleticism to warrant top-10 consideration but at this point he remains a largely unpolished product who relies on his natural tools rather than technique to make plays. Given Mingo's upside, it is easy to imagine him terrorizing NFL QBs off the edge as a multidimensional defender. Considering Mingo's relatively pedestrian numbers (38 tackles, 8½ tackles for loss, 4½ sacks) this season, however, the junior might have been better served returning to Baton Rouge for his senior season.

26. *Zach Ertz, TE, Stanford: Half of the most talented tight-end duo in college football, Ertz only started five games in 2012 but easily led the Rose Bowl-winning Cardinal in catches (69), receiving yards (898) and receiving touchdowns (six). While perhaps not quite as imposing as 6-8, 265 pound teammate Levine Toilolo (himself a potential top-75 prospect), Ertz combines rare size (6-6, 256) with athleticism and soft hands.

27. Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia: Used in much the same fashion as a receiver, runner and returner as the Minnesota Vikings feature Percy Harvin, Austin has emerged as the top senior playmaker in the country. At just 5-9, 172 pounds, Austin may not have been viewed as worthy of first-round consideration a few years ago, but in today's wide-open NFL that rewards mismatches Austin could prove among the more valued commodities on draft day.

28. Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma: With the athleticism that once saw him line up at QB, TE and DE, Johnson has emerged as arguably the fastest-rising LT prospect in the country. Having only played left tackle one season, Johnson is undeniably raw but his length, lateral agility and surprising physicality helped him shut down Texas A&M's Damontre Moore in the Cotton Bowl loss.

29. Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame: While perhaps lacking the elite breakaway speed that has helped Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski emerge as instant NFL stars, Eifert's 6-5, 252-pound frame and excellent ball skills make him a legitimate mismatch. In the pass-happy NFL, that could be enough to earn a late first-round selection.

30. *Matt Elam, SS, Florida: Perhaps a bit smaller than scouts would prefer (5-10, 202 pounds), Elam has proven himself to be a playmaker throughout his career, showing not only instincts, athleticism and physicality, but ball-hawking skills (six interceptions) and timing as well. The two-year starter was at his best under the brightest of lights, making game-changing plays against Florida State, Georgia, LSU and Tennessee, and pacing the Gators with 11 tackles, including a sack, in the Sugar Bowl loss to Louisville.

31. *Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State: With a rare combination of size (6-2, 217), physicality and athleticism, Rhodes proved to be a standout throughout his career with the Seminoles, culminating in first-team All-ACC honors in 2012. He'll need to run well in pre-draft workouts to guarantee being selected in the first round and projects best to a press-heavy scheme.

32. *D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama: Anyone who watched Alabama dismantle that talented Notre Dame defense in the BCS title game knows the Crimson Tide offensive line was dominant. Much of the credit has gone to the Tide's interior line (and for good reason). At 6-6, 335 pounds, however, Fluker is an absolute road-grader himself. Massive, physical and tenacious, he's the top right tackle prospect in the draft.

36. Oday Aboushi, OT, Virginia: Physical, aggressive blocker best suited to the right side in NFL.

37. Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas: Tough, strong-armed passer, but history of head injuries could scare teams.

38. *Eric Reid, FS, LSU: Terrific in run support but questionable instincts, fluidity could make him a liability in coverage in the NFL.

39. Phillip Thomas, FS, Fresno State: A Thorpe Award candidate with an FBS-leading leading eight interceptions (including three he has returned for touchdowns), Thomas is the best safety most haven't heard of.

40. Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina: Combining a quick first step and great power, Williams could leap into the first-round conversation with an impressive week at the Senior Bowl.

41. *DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson: Athletic with excellent ball skills, Hopkins ranks as one of the better all-around wideouts in the country.

42. Kenny Vaccaro, SS, Texas: Perhaps not the ball-hawk of former Texas DBs but is a steady, physical defender.

50. Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor: With both size and speed, Williams could enjoy similar NFL success catching passes in the NFL as former Baylor teammates Kendall Wright and Josh Gordon did as rookies in 2012.

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